Rail services across West Scotland were brought to a standstill on Wednesday 19th September with winds of almost 100mph caused by Storm Ali.
Despite the challenging conditions Stagecoach ran extra buses to meet the increased demand with commuters trying to get home.
Sam Greer, Stagecoach West Scotland Managing Director said: “We were given a moment’s notice that rail services had been cancelled however thanks to the immediate response from our drivers we were able to jump into action to ensure 1000’s of additional passengers were able to continue on with their journey.”
Controllers braved the elements at Waterloo Street providing customers with information and handing out umbrellas in an effort to keep everyone dry as the storm hit.
Customers expressed their gratitude for drivers who worked late into the evening via email and social media, Mrs Craig one of many to commend Stagecoach efforts said: “I was trying to get home as the trains had been cancelled so was pleased that extra buses had been put on, despite harsh driving conditions and a sudden change of route due to a fallen tree, our driver remained cheery and kept us informed at all times during our journey”.
During periods of rail disruption, Stagecoach has a agreement with Scotrail that those with a valid rail ticket can board their services free of charge out with peak travel times. Rail ticket holders wishing to travel during peak times should contact Scotrail regarding their delay repay scheme.
Stagecoach is continuing to run extra vehicles to provide additional capacity from Ayrshire to Glasgow due to the disruptions caused by the exclusion zone around Ayr Train Station.